The news that has had theatre land talking this week includes
Rose Ayling Ellis becomes patron of Deafinitely Theatre
It has been announced that Eastenders Star and Strictly Come Dancing winner Rose Ayling-Ellis has become the new patron of Deafinitely Youth Theatre.
The star is currently performing in As You Like It at new venue @Sohoplace in her west end debut
She has said “I am delighted to become a patron of Deafinitely Youth Theatre, a fantastic charity that is so special to me, and supporting the work they do is important to me. DYT, under the direction of Paula Garfield, was my first experience of deaf performing arts and I loved my time there’
Cabaret cast album to be released
A new cast recording of Cabaret is set to be released, featuring performances from Eddie Redmayne and Jessie Buckley who starred as the Emcee and Sally Bowles when the current production first opened.
The whole album will be available from 20 January, with Wilkommen and Mien herr already available.
Paul Whitehouse to return to Only Fools and Horses
It has been announced that Paul Whitehouse will return to the role of Grandad in Only Fools and Horses the Musical from 9 January
He has said: “I can’t wait to be back in Grandad’s armchair next year after a bit of a break – many thanks to Les Dennis who’s been keeping it warm for me! It’s incredible to still be playing to packed houses week in, week out and I’m thrilled that the show is extending the run yet again. Mange tout!”
The show is now booking until April 29th
Daisy Edgar-Jones to lead film version of Beautiful
From reports by Variety, it is understood that Daisy Edgar Jones is to star in a screen adaptation of Beautiful, playing the role of Carole King.
Lisa Cholodenko will direct, with further details to be announced.
My Son’s A Queer (But What Can You Do?) to return to the west end
It has been announced that Rob Madge’s My Son’s a Queer (But what can you do?) will return to London after successful runs at the Turbine and the Garrick.
The show, which follows Madge as a child putting on a Disney Parade in their living room, will play at the Ambassador’s Theatre from 25 January to 18 March.